Barnwell State Park
Blackville, South Carolina
Only about 60 miles from us, Barnwell is our go-to quick weekend getaway spot.
History of the park
Barnwell State Park is one of 16 South Carolina state parks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. The park still features the original CCC-built spillway, which remains one of its most beautiful and relaxing spots — especially when the water is flowing.
This small but charming park has long been a favorite of the local community, particularly for fishing and picnicking.
Campground information
Barnwell’s campground is on the smaller side, offering 25 sites tucked into a quiet, wooded area near the park’s ponds.
- All sites are back-in only, no pull-throughs.
- Pads are a mix of dirt and gravel.
- Each site includes water and electric hookups.
- Campsites 18–25 have 50-amp service and full hookups (water, sewer, and electric).
- A dump station is available.
- Four sites can handle rigs up to 36 feet, the rest up to 28 feet.
- Restrooms with hot showers are centrally located.
- A primitive group camp is available for up to 50 people, with picnic tables, fire ring, and a small restroom.
- Pets are welcome on a leash.
Campsite
Campsite 11 is our favorite. It’s a little tight to back into with a medium-sized (or larger) trailer, but once you’re in, you’ve got one of the most private and spacious sites in the park. Your neighbors aren’t right on top of you, and it feels tucked away.
That said, sites 7–14 are very tight and best avoided if your trailer is over 18–22 feet. Since every site is back-in, take it slow when parking.
At night, the campground really comes alive. Peepers sing, fireflies blink, and the dark skies open up for incredible stargazing. With no light pollution and only the distant sound of a far-off train, it feels wonderfully real and rustic.
Things to do
- Hiking: The Dogwood Nature Trail is the must-do. It loops around the ponds and passes the cabins, picnic shelters, community building, and campground. If you want a little more distance, connect to the Fern Hill Trail to explore upland forest and an area still showing the scars of a 2017 tornado.
- Fishing: With three small lakes, this park is known for great fishing. Crappie, bream, bass, and catfish are plentiful. Non-motorized boats are allowed, and rentals are available.
- Exploring the Spillway: The CCC spillway is our favorite feature — a relaxing, beautiful spot that never disappoints.
Nearby supplies & connectivity
Barnwell feels remote. Blackville is the nearest town, just a few minutes away, with basics like Dollar General and Family Dollar. If you need a true grocery store, plan to drive 20–30 minutes. Best bet: stock up before you arrive.
Cell phone service is hit-or-miss. With T-Mobile we had enough for calls, texts, and light streaming, but don’t expect blazing speeds.
Overall thoughts
Barnwell is low-key, simple, and peaceful. It may not have all the bells and whistles of bigger state parks, but that’s exactly why we love it. It feels like the wilderness, even though you’re not far from home.
The CCC history, great fishing, quiet trails, and that magical spillway make this park worth visiting again and again. Add in the stargazing, the night sounds, and the cozy campground, and it’s a perfect weekend recharge spot.
Camping with the Innies Score
Location: 🦴🦴🦴🦴 - easy to reach, tucked in rural South Carolina
Hiking/Walking Trails: 🦴🦴🦴 - short and easy, with variety for a small park
Bath House: 🦴🦴🦴 - standard, clean, and functional
Campsite Amenities: 🦴🦴🦴 - tight in places, but quiet and with full hookups in select spots
Surrounding Activities/Attractions: 🦴🦴 - not much nearby, but that’s part of the charm
Final Score: 15/25
Innies Picks 🏕️
- Favorite Site: Campsite 11 — private and spacious once you’re backed in.
- Must-See Spot: The CCC spillway when it’s flowing.
- Best Trail: Dogwood Nature Trail.
- Evening Vibes: Stargazing, fireflies, and the distant sound of a train.
- Shiba Treat: Pup s’mores — lightly toasted marshmallow on a graham cracker (no chocolate). 🐾
Pro Tips 💡
- Stock up on groceries before you arrive — Blackville only has small stores.
- Campsites 7–14 are tight; best for smaller rigs under 22 feet.
- Bring bug spray in warmer months.
- Don’t miss the spillway at golden hour — it’s gorgeous.
Thanks for stopping by and reading our review of Barnwell State Park! If you’ve been here before or are planning a visit, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Tim, Kristen, Monty & Gadget 🐾🐾
P.S. We may have stumbled onto another park not too far from Savannah — one with cannons, mossy oaks, and a few unexpected nighttime visitors. But more on that soon… 😉
https://southcarolinaparks.com/barnwell
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